5 answers
Melissa
Student
Arlington, Texas
1
Question
Asked
1054 views
How do I get into the fashion industry?
I’m 20 years old, not in college, and during my time in quarantine from Coronavirus I realised I have an interest and maybe even a niche in fashion. I would love to be a fashion stylist or even a fashion blogger but have no idea where to start or where to get help on getting started! #fashion
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5 answers
Doc Frick
Career Coach and Mentor
1350
Answers
California, CA
Updated
Doc’s Answer
Melissa, fashion is competitive. And if you want to break into the fashion industry with no experience, it can feel even harder. But here’s the thing: there are ways you can “create” your own experience and sell yourself to get your foot in the door.
HOW TO BREAK INTO THE FASHION INDUSTRY WITH NO EXPERIENCE
INTERNSHIP – Getting an internship in the fashion industry is crucial and you can never start too early. You can take a summer internship and get to know how the company works and create some valuable contacts that will help you in your career. Internships have a bad reputation but really they’re as much for you as they are for the company, as long as you make the most of your time there you’ll come away with insight and contacts to use in future. Internships and working for free to attain your dream job seems like the obvious sacrifice; however, this is not the only way anymore. Think of who you’d like to be your mentor and start researching their company and even reaching out online.
NETWORK – There’s no denying that the fashion industry is a real clique. It’s all about who you know, and making a name for yourself is absolutely essential. Explore all the fashion events that are around you, and make sure you dress well enough to stand out from the rest when you do. It’s important to get yourself out there and make yourself known, whether that’s with PR’s or Fashion Assistants/Editors. These are the contacts that you need to build relationships with, as they will all be the first to know about any job openings and opportunities before they are advertised. It’s also worth networking on social media. Linkedin.com is a great tool for reaching out to people and seeking out opportunities.
LINKEDIN – The trick is to make your own connections. Make a list of the people and companies you admire within the industry. Do diligent research, make sure your resume is up to date, and start reaching out to a few key people for informational interviews (not to ask for jobs, just to learn more about their career!). Reach out via email or LinkedIn (or a social media platform if appropriate), tell them you admire their work, and politely ask for 15 minutes of their time over a quick coffee to discuss their own career path and how they got to where they are. Most people are happy to help (any excuse to talk about themselves is always good). You never know what you'll learn or what opportunities these quick coffees can lead to, the fashion industry is a very small place!
START A BLOG
The great thing about fashion is that it’s completely subjective. There’s no right way to dress and you should use that as an opportunity to express yourself. There is no end to the generic fashion blogs that are out there, so make yours unique and you will have the perfect way of selling your talents. A great thing about having your own blog is that potential employers, whether they are a magazine editor or a fashion designer, can see your work and style in an online CV/portfolio. Without much experience and expertise under your belt, one sure fire way to make a lasting impression is to tell an interesting personal story that highlights who you are.
Hope this was Helpful Melissa
HOW TO BREAK INTO THE FASHION INDUSTRY WITH NO EXPERIENCE
INTERNSHIP – Getting an internship in the fashion industry is crucial and you can never start too early. You can take a summer internship and get to know how the company works and create some valuable contacts that will help you in your career. Internships have a bad reputation but really they’re as much for you as they are for the company, as long as you make the most of your time there you’ll come away with insight and contacts to use in future. Internships and working for free to attain your dream job seems like the obvious sacrifice; however, this is not the only way anymore. Think of who you’d like to be your mentor and start researching their company and even reaching out online.
NETWORK – There’s no denying that the fashion industry is a real clique. It’s all about who you know, and making a name for yourself is absolutely essential. Explore all the fashion events that are around you, and make sure you dress well enough to stand out from the rest when you do. It’s important to get yourself out there and make yourself known, whether that’s with PR’s or Fashion Assistants/Editors. These are the contacts that you need to build relationships with, as they will all be the first to know about any job openings and opportunities before they are advertised. It’s also worth networking on social media. Linkedin.com is a great tool for reaching out to people and seeking out opportunities.
LINKEDIN – The trick is to make your own connections. Make a list of the people and companies you admire within the industry. Do diligent research, make sure your resume is up to date, and start reaching out to a few key people for informational interviews (not to ask for jobs, just to learn more about their career!). Reach out via email or LinkedIn (or a social media platform if appropriate), tell them you admire their work, and politely ask for 15 minutes of their time over a quick coffee to discuss their own career path and how they got to where they are. Most people are happy to help (any excuse to talk about themselves is always good). You never know what you'll learn or what opportunities these quick coffees can lead to, the fashion industry is a very small place!
START A BLOG
The great thing about fashion is that it’s completely subjective. There’s no right way to dress and you should use that as an opportunity to express yourself. There is no end to the generic fashion blogs that are out there, so make yours unique and you will have the perfect way of selling your talents. A great thing about having your own blog is that potential employers, whether they are a magazine editor or a fashion designer, can see your work and style in an online CV/portfolio. Without much experience and expertise under your belt, one sure fire way to make a lasting impression is to tell an interesting personal story that highlights who you are.
Hope this was Helpful Melissa
Melissa, Nothing is impossible, the word itself says “I’m possible”!
sushma Bekal
Technical Support
30
Answers
Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
Updated
sushma’s Answer
Hi Mellisa, Its good to hear that you have found your interest during this pandemic. Since you are interested in fashion blogging you can start with social media platform where you can showcase your talent along with it there are many courses that are available that will assist you in upskilling yourself. You can look for options which offers distance education or full time.
Sunitha V
Technician,Technical Support
23
Answers
Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
Updated
Sunitha’s Answer
The good news is there's not only one solution, but a ton of ways you can get into fashion with no experience.
Start a blog. Starting a blog is the easiest and most obvious way to get into fashion with no experience. ...
Freelance for online magazines. ...
Create an app. ...
Send a cold e-mail. ...
Start a clothing line. ...
xx Britt.
How Do I Break Into the Fashion Industry With Zero Connections?
Guest post: Judy Hofmeyr
Getting a foot in the door of the fashion industry may be daunting. It’s an extremely competitive world where cool creatives and sassy strategists have to work together to keep up with rapidly changing trends and a demanding audience who are spoilt for choice. That being said, fashion careers can be very alluring to young, inventive university graduates whose love for the fashion industry is only paralleled by their determination to leave their mark on it. In this article you’ll learn how to get your stiletto-clad foot in the door.
My experience with the fashion industry is that the tasks keeping it afloat are more diversified than appears from the outside. There may be some fashion environments that are brutal, but, in general, The Devil Wears Prada is a less than accurate depiction of the industry! Here are some pointers on where to look for opportunities, how to make the most of them, and how to prepare yourself in the meantime.
Part 1: Where to look for opportunities
Look for a fashion internship
The best place to start is with an internship. Even if you’ve studied something fashion-related, nothing beats real-world experience. You have to be totally okay with starting at the bottom. A fashion internship is guaranteed to round off your textbook knowledge and develop your skills. Additionally, an internship every so often serves as an extended job interview and could land you a permanent position.
Big fish in small ponds
Not all of us will land a Lauren Conrad-type career. The most important lesson to learn is that there are more role players in this industry than Vogue and Fashion TV. The smaller players often offer opportunities where you’ll learn more, gain more experience, and receive more recognition. Fashion start-ups greatly rely on interns, and since these companies are still developing and finding their feet, your input can carry double the value it would’ve making copies and taking coffee orders at some glossy magazine.
Be present online
When it comes to the fashion industry today, the most important place you can be is online. Use search engines, blogger networks and social media to keep tabs on fashion platforms both in your area and abroad. Most organizations will have a link to their “jobs” page. There are also many sites that serve as hubs for jobs in the fashion industry. Social media networks like LinkedIn are also great platforms to find opportunities. Make a habit of checking these pages regularly, and apply as soon as something comes up. It shouldn’t be necessary to stress how important it is to tailor each cover letter to the job you’re applying for. Highlight your strong points and indicate clearly how they will benefit the company.
Part 2: How to make the most of an opportunity
Keep track of skills gained
As with any job opportunity, it’s most important to have a positive mind-set – even when doing monotonous tasks or feeling overworked. Write down every time you learn something new, or master a skill. You’d be surprised how quickly your CV expands.
Identify your dream fashion career
One of the most productive things I’ve done was identifying my dream job (no matter how unattainable it was at the time) and focusing on what I would need to know and be able to do to be considered for it. Yes, it could take years to gain that kind of experience, but it makes it easier to make career decisions and determine your next step.
Don’t be afraid to ask
During my first internship, I learnt that asking to do something is the easiest way to develop yourself. Do you want to learn more about public relations? Why not ask the person responsible for it if you can contribute in a small way, or can merely observe the process? Finding a mentor in the industry is also a way in which you can learn things other than those listed in your job description.
Part 3: What to do in the mean time…
Keep moving
I’ve said a lot about skills. The reality is: the fashion industry needs people with many, many different talents. They need writers, strategists, designers, project leaders, business developers, marketers, photographers, even accountants! Sticking to what you’re good at is a great point of departure. If you’re unsuccessful in landing an opportunity in a fashion environment, there are still many organizations out there where you can develop the same skills the fashion industry needs.
Take initiative
I cannot stress enough how much value there is in taking some initiative. Creating a blog or a voice on social media is one of the best ways to build up a network and gain recognition in the fashion world. Even if your future employer has never heard of you, showing them what you’ve accomplished in your spare time gives you a massive step up. Creating an online platform today is easier than ever. Use it to share your thoughts, inspiration, your personal style and your writing/creative/editorial skills.
Keep up with fashion trends
Last, but not least, stay up to date with what happens in the fashion industry. An easy way to do this is by following a few big shots or media houses on Twitter, and scanning the hot topics and latest fashion trends before breakfast every day. When you land your big break, you’ll be knowledgeable enough to form an opinion and provide valuable input.
There are many opportunities out there. Your enthusiasm and creativity are your strongest assets in the fashion world. Don’t make the mistake of sitting still – roll up your sleeves and show this industry what you’re made of!
Start a blog. Starting a blog is the easiest and most obvious way to get into fashion with no experience. ...
Freelance for online magazines. ...
Create an app. ...
Send a cold e-mail. ...
Start a clothing line. ...
xx Britt.
How Do I Break Into the Fashion Industry With Zero Connections?
Guest post: Judy Hofmeyr
Getting a foot in the door of the fashion industry may be daunting. It’s an extremely competitive world where cool creatives and sassy strategists have to work together to keep up with rapidly changing trends and a demanding audience who are spoilt for choice. That being said, fashion careers can be very alluring to young, inventive university graduates whose love for the fashion industry is only paralleled by their determination to leave their mark on it. In this article you’ll learn how to get your stiletto-clad foot in the door.
My experience with the fashion industry is that the tasks keeping it afloat are more diversified than appears from the outside. There may be some fashion environments that are brutal, but, in general, The Devil Wears Prada is a less than accurate depiction of the industry! Here are some pointers on where to look for opportunities, how to make the most of them, and how to prepare yourself in the meantime.
Part 1: Where to look for opportunities
Look for a fashion internship
The best place to start is with an internship. Even if you’ve studied something fashion-related, nothing beats real-world experience. You have to be totally okay with starting at the bottom. A fashion internship is guaranteed to round off your textbook knowledge and develop your skills. Additionally, an internship every so often serves as an extended job interview and could land you a permanent position.
Big fish in small ponds
Not all of us will land a Lauren Conrad-type career. The most important lesson to learn is that there are more role players in this industry than Vogue and Fashion TV. The smaller players often offer opportunities where you’ll learn more, gain more experience, and receive more recognition. Fashion start-ups greatly rely on interns, and since these companies are still developing and finding their feet, your input can carry double the value it would’ve making copies and taking coffee orders at some glossy magazine.
Be present online
When it comes to the fashion industry today, the most important place you can be is online. Use search engines, blogger networks and social media to keep tabs on fashion platforms both in your area and abroad. Most organizations will have a link to their “jobs” page. There are also many sites that serve as hubs for jobs in the fashion industry. Social media networks like LinkedIn are also great platforms to find opportunities. Make a habit of checking these pages regularly, and apply as soon as something comes up. It shouldn’t be necessary to stress how important it is to tailor each cover letter to the job you’re applying for. Highlight your strong points and indicate clearly how they will benefit the company.
Part 2: How to make the most of an opportunity
Keep track of skills gained
As with any job opportunity, it’s most important to have a positive mind-set – even when doing monotonous tasks or feeling overworked. Write down every time you learn something new, or master a skill. You’d be surprised how quickly your CV expands.
Identify your dream fashion career
One of the most productive things I’ve done was identifying my dream job (no matter how unattainable it was at the time) and focusing on what I would need to know and be able to do to be considered for it. Yes, it could take years to gain that kind of experience, but it makes it easier to make career decisions and determine your next step.
Don’t be afraid to ask
During my first internship, I learnt that asking to do something is the easiest way to develop yourself. Do you want to learn more about public relations? Why not ask the person responsible for it if you can contribute in a small way, or can merely observe the process? Finding a mentor in the industry is also a way in which you can learn things other than those listed in your job description.
Part 3: What to do in the mean time…
Keep moving
I’ve said a lot about skills. The reality is: the fashion industry needs people with many, many different talents. They need writers, strategists, designers, project leaders, business developers, marketers, photographers, even accountants! Sticking to what you’re good at is a great point of departure. If you’re unsuccessful in landing an opportunity in a fashion environment, there are still many organizations out there where you can develop the same skills the fashion industry needs.
Take initiative
I cannot stress enough how much value there is in taking some initiative. Creating a blog or a voice on social media is one of the best ways to build up a network and gain recognition in the fashion world. Even if your future employer has never heard of you, showing them what you’ve accomplished in your spare time gives you a massive step up. Creating an online platform today is easier than ever. Use it to share your thoughts, inspiration, your personal style and your writing/creative/editorial skills.
Keep up with fashion trends
Last, but not least, stay up to date with what happens in the fashion industry. An easy way to do this is by following a few big shots or media houses on Twitter, and scanning the hot topics and latest fashion trends before breakfast every day. When you land your big break, you’ll be knowledgeable enough to form an opinion and provide valuable input.
There are many opportunities out there. Your enthusiasm and creativity are your strongest assets in the fashion world. Don’t make the mistake of sitting still – roll up your sleeves and show this industry what you’re made of!
Sunitha V
Technician,Technical Support
23
Answers
Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
Updated
Sunitha’s Answer
The good news is there's not only one solution, but a ton of ways you can get into fashion with no experience.
Start a blog. Starting a blog is the easiest and most obvious way to get into fashion with no experience. ...
Freelance for online magazines. ...
Create an app. ...
Send a cold e-mail. ...
Start a clothing line. ...
xx Britt.
A career in the fashion industry, to recent grads or career-switchers, can seem like an elusive dream—only for the privileged, polished, experienced elite. But this couldn’t be further from the truth. With the right attitude and work ethic, anyone at any age can break into the fashion industry. And here are some tips that will help.
1. Consider a degree within your budget.
A career in fashion means you need to be equipped with the right knowledge and skill set. If you’re not going into business for yourself, take note that many employers will still look to your degree along with your experience, which is why getting at least an associate's or bachelor's degree related to art or fashion is still important for those who don't have direct associations with big fashion companies. Also note that the cost of getting a fashion degree varies widely, depending on the school you want to get into. So it’s wise to consider your budget and ability to handle student loans after graduation.
2. Think about your niche.
Whether you’re planning to run your own business or work for a big fashion company, it’s important that you stand out as a professional. This means you have to know your niche and build on that identity. In fashion, it’s better to be a master of a single niche than to be a jack of all trades. That is, you’ll be better recognized if you do a single thing well, rather than try to please all audiences by designing or creating many products. For example, if your focus is bridal wear, don't try to delve right away into swimsuis. If your passion is women's handbags and shoes, don’t include non-related items in your line like babywear. Focus on your niche, and attempt to be recognized in this area first before expanding.
3. Don't forget to network.
These days, networking can be done easily through digital means, not just through in-person meetups. Boris Hokadel, CEO of online marketplace Sewport, recommends that fashion newbies take advantage of the digital sphere to create networks with fashion companies, suppliers, and designers to get their brand names to be more recognized. This can be done by creating your own fashion website or blog, while also boosting your social media accounts. It’s also essential to attend fashion exhibits, expos, or other events where you can meet and network with others. And don’t be intimidated by big names. Be confident in who you are and be prepared to exchange business cards when needed. These small steps can help you generate leads and important partnerships that will further your fashion career.
4. Understand the trends.
People who are passionate about their craft continuously improve by understanding the recent trends in which their audience is interested. You can do this by subscribing to fashion magazines, looking up influencers on social media, and reading articles on websites about fashion. The formula of successful fashion design or product is a mix of going with the trends, while still keeping it unique for your audience. While researching on trends, be sure to also consider the core values that you and/or your company represent. Do you value style, functionality, elegance, or comfort? Be sure to always stay in line with these core values so you can incorporate it with the recent trends.
5. Be yourself.
Although fashion is an industry, it’s also an art—it’s an expression of who you are. Trends can come and go, but true fashion experts don’t only rely on them for profits; they can set trends themselves as well. When trying to work with clients or serving consumers, it also helps to allow your creativity to shine. This means searching for inspiration in things around you—nature, people you read about or watch, other people's art, etc. Also find inspiration with what's inside you: what things do you consider beautiful and inspiring? These combinations of ideas will help you build something creative that could be a way to help you build an identity for yourself.
Start a blog. Starting a blog is the easiest and most obvious way to get into fashion with no experience. ...
Freelance for online magazines. ...
Create an app. ...
Send a cold e-mail. ...
Start a clothing line. ...
xx Britt.
A career in the fashion industry, to recent grads or career-switchers, can seem like an elusive dream—only for the privileged, polished, experienced elite. But this couldn’t be further from the truth. With the right attitude and work ethic, anyone at any age can break into the fashion industry. And here are some tips that will help.
1. Consider a degree within your budget.
A career in fashion means you need to be equipped with the right knowledge and skill set. If you’re not going into business for yourself, take note that many employers will still look to your degree along with your experience, which is why getting at least an associate's or bachelor's degree related to art or fashion is still important for those who don't have direct associations with big fashion companies. Also note that the cost of getting a fashion degree varies widely, depending on the school you want to get into. So it’s wise to consider your budget and ability to handle student loans after graduation.
2. Think about your niche.
Whether you’re planning to run your own business or work for a big fashion company, it’s important that you stand out as a professional. This means you have to know your niche and build on that identity. In fashion, it’s better to be a master of a single niche than to be a jack of all trades. That is, you’ll be better recognized if you do a single thing well, rather than try to please all audiences by designing or creating many products. For example, if your focus is bridal wear, don't try to delve right away into swimsuis. If your passion is women's handbags and shoes, don’t include non-related items in your line like babywear. Focus on your niche, and attempt to be recognized in this area first before expanding.
3. Don't forget to network.
These days, networking can be done easily through digital means, not just through in-person meetups. Boris Hokadel, CEO of online marketplace Sewport, recommends that fashion newbies take advantage of the digital sphere to create networks with fashion companies, suppliers, and designers to get their brand names to be more recognized. This can be done by creating your own fashion website or blog, while also boosting your social media accounts. It’s also essential to attend fashion exhibits, expos, or other events where you can meet and network with others. And don’t be intimidated by big names. Be confident in who you are and be prepared to exchange business cards when needed. These small steps can help you generate leads and important partnerships that will further your fashion career.
4. Understand the trends.
People who are passionate about their craft continuously improve by understanding the recent trends in which their audience is interested. You can do this by subscribing to fashion magazines, looking up influencers on social media, and reading articles on websites about fashion. The formula of successful fashion design or product is a mix of going with the trends, while still keeping it unique for your audience. While researching on trends, be sure to also consider the core values that you and/or your company represent. Do you value style, functionality, elegance, or comfort? Be sure to always stay in line with these core values so you can incorporate it with the recent trends.
5. Be yourself.
Although fashion is an industry, it’s also an art—it’s an expression of who you are. Trends can come and go, but true fashion experts don’t only rely on them for profits; they can set trends themselves as well. When trying to work with clients or serving consumers, it also helps to allow your creativity to shine. This means searching for inspiration in things around you—nature, people you read about or watch, other people's art, etc. Also find inspiration with what's inside you: what things do you consider beautiful and inspiring? These combinations of ideas will help you build something creative that could be a way to help you build an identity for yourself.
Dahyun Lee
cabin crew
11
Answers
Seoul, South Korea
Updated
Dahyun’s Answer
Hi melissa.
I worked as a fashion designer about almost 2 years. Sometimes I met my colleagues who didn't study in fashion. There are so many method about fashion by yourself.
1)attend vacation class.
Fashion school like FIT / parsons/ prat or etc have there vacation class. Everyone can listen about making pattens, learning fashion history , colors and so on. So I recommend if you have enough time, attend that class. It will be help you a lot.
2)Subscribe fashion magazine.
You interested in fashion stylist or fashion blogger so scrab about fashion look. So I recommend vogue or bazar. Those 2 maganize concentrate about the fashion. Also if you can read about fashion week magazine. Fashion blogger and stylist can read trend. So try to find as much as you can.
Nowadays, there are so many contents you learn in fashion. But from now, some brands want to see portpolio or hand drawing. So you will check onlin and offline.
I worked as a fashion designer about almost 2 years. Sometimes I met my colleagues who didn't study in fashion. There are so many method about fashion by yourself.
1)attend vacation class.
Fashion school like FIT / parsons/ prat or etc have there vacation class. Everyone can listen about making pattens, learning fashion history , colors and so on. So I recommend if you have enough time, attend that class. It will be help you a lot.
2)Subscribe fashion magazine.
You interested in fashion stylist or fashion blogger so scrab about fashion look. So I recommend vogue or bazar. Those 2 maganize concentrate about the fashion. Also if you can read about fashion week magazine. Fashion blogger and stylist can read trend. So try to find as much as you can.
Nowadays, there are so many contents you learn in fashion. But from now, some brands want to see portpolio or hand drawing. So you will check onlin and offline.